Top Highlights
- Joby Aviation plans to acquire Resonant Sciences for $500M in cash and stock.
- Resonant will become a dedicated defense division led by its CEO.
- The move allows Joby to focus on certifying and producing air taxis.
- Resonant’s tech and US government contracts boost Joby’s defense sector expansion.
Joby Aviation Expands into Defense with Major Acquisition
Joby Aviation has announced a $500 million deal to buy Resonant Sciences. This move marks a significant step as Joby builds out its presence in the defense sector. Resonant Sciences, based in Ohio, makes radio frequency and sensor systems. Once acquired, Resonant will operate as a separate division focused on defense projects. J. Micah North, co-founder and CEO of Resonant, will lead the new division.
This acquisition includes Joby’s current defense efforts. The division will take over projects like developing turbine-electric and hydrogen-electric aircraft, as well as autonomy technology. By creating a dedicated defense business, Joby aims to focus more on its core goal: bringing its electric air taxis to market. Meanwhile, the defense division will work on innovative military aircraft and sensor systems.
Joby’s move into defense technology allows the company to diversify revenue streams. Resonant’s existing business brings in around $100 million annually and provides access to classified government programs. Combining Resonant’s tech with Joby’s electric aircraft efforts creates new opportunities for growth. It also enhances Joby’s ability to supply defense agencies with cutting-edge sensor and radio systems.
Strategic Growth and Practical Innovation
For Joby, the acquisition serves both strategic and practical purposes. The company is known for developing electric urban air taxis, designed to shuttle passengers and goods over city streets. But the company has also made strides in defense-related projects. Last year, Joby partnered with L3Harris Technologies to explore hybrid VTOL aircraft that can fly autonomously for long distances. Tests of a hydrogen-electric version of the aircraft flew more than 500 miles—double the distance of previous battery-powered prototypes.
Joby has already taken steps to generate near-term revenue. In 2022, the company bought Blade Air Mobility’s helicopter rideshare business for about $125 million, adding a network of terminals in New York City and at major airports. This acquisition provided immediate income, helping sustain Joby’s long-term ambitions.
With the new defense division, Joby aims to balance advanced tech development with operational profitability. While the development of fully certified eVTOLs remains complex and costly, this strategic push into defense offers a more immediate revenue stream. The combination of commercial and defense work may ultimately fuel the company’s journey from innovation to practical deployment.
Expand Your Tech Knowledge
Learn how the Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming everyday life.
Discover archived knowledge and digital history on the Internet Archive.
TechV1
